• A stand of Andropogon gerardii (Big Bluestem) in a prairie setting, displaying tall, reddish-purple stems with distinctive three-pronged seed heads resembling a turkey's foot. The foliage transitions from green to warm hues in late summer and fall.
  • This image shows a potted big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii) plant, photographed in a nursery setting. The grass features tall, arching blades that range from bright green to reddish hues, with characteristic purplish flowering stalks just beginning to emerge. The plant has a dense, tufted base and is set against a black weed barrier surface, with wooden bench structures in the background.
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Wild About Flowers

Andropogon gerardii - Big Bluestem

Andropogon gerardii - Big Bluestem

$5.00 CAD
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Big Bluestem is a tall, warm-season perennial grass known for its striking blue-green foliage that shifts to rich shades of red, bronze, and purple in the fall. Its distinctive, three-pronged seed heads resemble a turkey's foot, earning it the nickname "Turkey Foot Grass".� Blooming in late summer, Big Bluestem provides shelter and nesting material for birds, while its flowers support pollinators and other beneficial insects.

Native to open prairies and dry grasslands, Big Bluestem thrives in well-drained soils and is highly drought-tolerant once established. Its deep root system makes it ideal for erosion control, prairie restoration, and low-maintenance landscapes. With its coarse texture and tough stems, it is rarely browsed by deer.

Bloom Times & Plant Sizes

Important Information - The "Bloom Period" is an indicator of the time period within which the wildflowers will bloom and does not describe the time period that a single plant will bloom.  The "Sizes" listed are intended to be a general guideline to consult during plant selection. - Plant growth and bloom times will vary depending on geographical location & individual site conditions.

Edible & Medicinal Info Disclaimer

The Edible & Medicinal information on this site is for informational purposes only and should not be acted on without thorough research and professional guidance. We are not responsible for any adverse effects resulting from the use of or misidentification of plants.

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Plant Specifics

Seeds Per Pack

Seeds Per Package: 50

Light Conditions

  • Sun

Soil Conditions

  • Well Drained
  • Dry

Height

  • 36" - 48"
  • 48" +

Width

  • 24" - 36"

Bloom Colour

  • Yellow

Month of Bloom

  • June
  • July
  • August

Vigorousness

  • Moderate
  • Fast

Deer Resistance

  • Moderate

Features

  • Birds
  • Attractive Seed Heads
  • Fall Color
  • Rural Spaces
  • Good in Containers
  • Used as Groundcover

Chinook Exposure

  • Moderate

Distribution Info

Native to Canada, Big Bluestem is found from AB, to ON, flourishing in dry grasslands, open prairies, and along roadsides. Its range extends across much of North America, where it was once a dominant species of the tallgrass prairie. With its deep root system, it helps improve soil health, sequester carbon, and stabilize slopes.

Traditional Edible & Medicinal Info